The 1996 General Conference of The United Methodist Church adopted a resolution aimed at reducing the risk of child abuse. Aldersgate is a church committed to providing safe and nurturing ministries for children and youth.
Our church has taken the following steps:
- Developing an ongoing education plan for the congregation and its leaders on the reality of child abuse, risk factors leading to child abuse, and strategies for prevention. (Almost all of our children’s Sunday School teachers, both pastors, children’s and youth ministries directors, attended the Prevent Child Abuse, Course offered)
- Adopted screening procedures (use of application forms, reference checks, and background checks) for workers (paid and unpaid) directly or indirectly involved with the care of children and youth.
- Developed and implemented safety procedures for church activities such as having two or more adults present in classroom or activity; leaving doors open and installing half doors or windows in doors or halls; instituting sign-in and sign-out procedures for children ages ten or younger.
- Carry liability insurance that includes sexual misconduct coverage.
Aldersgate’s congregation is capable of assuring that its church building is a place of security and peace for children. God calls us to create communities of faith where children and adults grow safe and strong!